"Mississippi Goddam"
Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Landmark Events of the Civil Rights Movement
The Schomburg Center kicks-off its 2013-2014 season with a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of some of the most memorable landmark events of the Civil Rights Movement from 1963-1965.
Mississippi Goddam, the iconic protest song, encapsulates the profound turmoil of 1963: the murder of Medgar Evers in Mississippi, the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Alabama, and the attacks by vicious dogs against the non-violent freedom fighters—throughout the South. Nina Simone paints a stark picture of the price paid by many innocent victims as well as courageous fighters on the frontline of the struggle for Civil Rights.
WATCH
Nina Simone performing Mississippi Goddam in Holland in 1965
Fifty years later, Nina Simone brings to life the history of an era like no other, a time when people stood up ready to die for change. Without excuse or apology, Simone's song stands as a powerful indictment against an unjust and racist society.—Clarisse Rosaz Shariyf, Programs Manager
LEARN
The Civil Rights Movement teaches students the power of the people when they organize and act collectively towards a goal. Teaching the history of the movement to young people help them understand how our democratic rights can be exercised even when they are opposed and fully grasp how true change requires the engagement of the young, old, educated, workers, everybody—in unity.—Deirdre Hollman, Director of Education and the Junior Scholars ProgramPARTICIPATE
The Civil Rights Project: In Six Words
What does the Civil Rights Movement mean to you? Then or now? Submit your responses now! Example: Movements to gain Freedoms we deserve #civilrights6
VISIT
Free Public Programs, September 13—15, 2013
- School Program: Youth Activism and the Civil Rights Movement
- Films at the Schomburg: 4 Little Girls
- Letter from Birmingham Jail: A Read-In
- Films at the Schomburg: Reflections Unheard
- Songs of Freedom Concert